In an otherwise healthy adult with a solitary 24 mm cervical lymph node and no other concerning findings, what is the probability that the node is reactive rather than malignant?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 9, 2026View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Related Questions

In a 7‑year‑old child with a large post‑auricular swelling, how should I differentiate reactive lymphadenopathy from a true mass and what is the initial management?
What is the appropriate management for a borderline enlarged left inguinal lymph node that may be reactive?
What is the management approach for a 2-month-old infant with bilateral posterior cervical reactive lymph nodes?
What is the best imaging modality for evaluating lymph nodes in the face?
What is the management plan for a 49-year-old male patient with a recent complaint of an inflamed lymph node in the groin area, now asymptomatic?
What is the recommended empiric antibiotic regimen for a dental infection in a patient allergic to amoxicillin, clindamycin, and doxycycline?
What is the likely diagnosis and appropriate management for a child who experiences early‑morning abdominal cramps with hard stools but no nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or blood in the stool?
Why is the effect of digoxin potentiated in hypokalemia?
What is the likely cause and appropriate work‑up for an obese patient with elevated liver enzymes and a normal liver ultrasound?
Why is sodium bicarbonate prescribed in chronic kidney disease?
In a 6‑month postpartum woman who stopped breastfeeding 2 weeks ago, with month‑long fatigue, low mood, low motivation, difficulty losing weight, occasional missed levothyroxine (25 µg daily) doses, restarted fluoxetine (Prozac) 2 weeks ago, and new snoring, what are the likely differential diagnoses and which laboratory tests and screenings should be ordered?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.